DOUBLE STANDARDS
The story of Martha Lois Grooms Eargle was one that had to be told for the sake of posterity, not only for her progeny but for others as well. Because the story of Lois Eargle is one of self-reliance, self-determination, and empowerment of the individual – mind, body, and soul. Her life is a testament to living by the word of God and using one’s personal resources – and those resources that might be available around you – to achieve one’s goals. And it is a testament to denying adversity the upper hand, by countering limitations through diligence and hard work.
Or it is the living achievement of God’s purpose for her, as the good woman would humbly state it.
But finding firm purchase in society and in politics would prove difficult for the well-intentioned woman, even during the years of the feminist movement and the growing awareness of women as a political force to be reckoned with. And in the nepotistic, hedonistic, and corrupt world of South Carolina politics, where everybody knew everybody and nobody dared to challenge the powers that be, gaining purchase would be the easy part. Being able to maintain position and move forward, to get things done and make certain promises were kept, would become a neverending battle.
